We're making incremental additions to get our force numbers a little higher.

WASHINGTON TWP. — The police department will be saying goodbye to one of its long-time members, but welcoming onboard two full-time officers in his place once they finish going through the police academy.

Police Chief Rafael Muniz said Capt. Richard Leonard will be retiring on Sept. 1. He received Leonard's notice over the weekend and decided to reach out to the council.

The Washington Township Council met Tuesday morning to discuss roadwork during a special meeting, but to also discuss the matter of hiring two full-time officers.

Business Administrator Bob Smith said council members Michelle Martin, Scott Newman and Council President Giancarlo D'Orazio voted in favor of making them full-time officers. Councilman Chris Del Borrello was not present at the meeting, and councilman Daniel Morley abstained from the vote.

"I'm satisfied there is sufficient funds in the current budget to pay for the officers," Smith said. "We're making incremental additions to get our force numbers a little higher."

The two officers, who were previously approved at the last council meeting to attend Special Law Enforcement Officer academy, will now be attending the police academy with three other officers who were appointed during the July 23 meeting.

"There will now be five officers going through the academy," said Smith. "They will all be finished the academy in December."

The chief said the department will now have 76 officers, which is closer to the number he had when he started as chief a few years ago.

The officers will earn a starting salary of $32,500 with benefits after they graduate. During the academy, the officers will be making minimum wage with no benefits.

The officers will be out on the streets by early 2015 after they finish the academy and field training.